There is no justification for Monday's terrorist attacks in Moscow, whatever the motives may be. The pair of explosions that were set off by suicide bombers at two landmark subway stations in the Russian capital killed at least 39 people and injured dozens more.

The rush-hour blasts were aimed at killing as many people as possible, according to Russian officials. The magnitude of the cruelty is simply numbing.

The heinous extreme acts were nothing but an open defiance to civilized society. Whoever is behind the attacks must be a cold-blooded killer with total disregard for human life. They should be viewed as public enemy No 1.

We believe the Russian government is fully capable of dealing with the aftermaths of the tragedy and beefing up security at one of the world's busiest metro systems.

With support from the international community, the Russian authorities are fully justified in hunting down the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.

The international community has shared its heartfelt sympathy with Russia and uttered its strong condemnation for the violent acts. President Hu Jintao was among the first group of world leaders to send a telegram to Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev to extend his condolences to the families of the victims. He also pledged support to Russia's efforts to fight terrorism.

The Chinese people are grieving for the dead and also condemning Monday's violence. We have shared and will continue to share a common mission in fighting terrorism within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The attacks in Moscow will unite our two peoples even closer for safeguarding regional peace and security.

The possible link between the attacks and a Chechnya-based terrorist group, as identified by the Russian police, should alarm the international community to make even greater efforts against terrorism. Only when terrorism is rooted out can our societies be immune from tragedies such as the Moscow bombing.